The United States and Iran have both rejected claims of extending a fragile two-week ceasefire amid ongoing negotiations mediated by Pakistan, with the current truce set to expire next week. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Wednesday that reports of an extension are "not true at this moment," though she expressed cautious optimism about progress in talks aimed at ending the weeks-long conflict.
Leavitt did not confirm a timeline for resuming discussions but emphasized that Pakistan remains the preferred venue for dialogue. This follows stalled negotiations in Islamabad over the weekend, which had sought to address Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief demands. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei similarly denied any agreement on prolonging the ceasefire, reiterating Tehran’s insistence on its right to peaceful nuclear energy.
US President Donald Trump hinted on Tuesday that renewed talks "could be happening over the next two days" in Pakistan, while claiming the conflict is "very close to being over." Analysts warn that the lack of a clear roadmap risks further escalation, particularly as regional stability hangs in the balance. Pakistan’s role as mediator has drawn international attention, with observers noting its strategic efforts to bridge divides between Washington and Tehran.
The ceasefire, initially announced on April 8, has temporarily halted hostilities but faces mounting pressure as diplomatic deadlines approach. Global markets remain sensitive to developments, with energy prices fluctuating amid uncertainty over the region’s security outlook.
